Street lands on DL, Giambi activated

ST.LOUIS — Huston Street’s ace bandage told the story before the Twitter feed did. Street landed on the disabled list with right triceps soreness. Jason Giambi, his left quad healthy, took Street’s roster spot.

“It’s not serious. But (head athletic trainer Keith) Dugger felt it was best if I let it rest,” said Street. “It’s the best thing for the team and for me.”

Street expects to be able to come off the disabled list when eligible on Aug. 24. The injury occurred during his last save on Monday night. Facing the Reds’ Edgar Renteria, he felt something in his arm on a fastball. Catcher Chris Iannetta visited the mound, and Street indicated he could get through the at-bat. He threw three more pitches, notching his 29th save in 32 chances.

“But I kind of knew something was wrong. I thought after letting it rest a day, it would be fine when I played catch. That happens all the time. But it didn’t respond,” Street said.

With Street injured, Rafael Betancourt will assume the closer’s role. Betancourt has not allowed an earned run in 15 appearances, and converted his first save in Tuesday’s win.

Giambi will return to his old role of spelling Todd Helton at first base and pinch-hitting late in the game.

“I got what I needed from the rehab assignment. I am ready to go,” Giambi said.

Patrick, a third-generation Colorado native, is back for his second stint covering the Rockies. He first covered the team from 2005-2009, helping chronicle “Rocktober” in 2007 and also following the team’s playoff run in 2009.

Nick Groke has worked at The Denver Post since 1997, as a sports reporter, city reporter, entertainment writer and digital editor and producer, among other newsroom posts. He also writes regularly about boxing, soccer, MMA and NASCAR.